2025 Women in CRE: Sue Villarosa, Anchin

What has been the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in your career, and why?

Since starting my career in commercial real estate in 2014, one of the most rewarding projects I’ve been involved in was a large-scale estate tax compliance engagement for a client with significant real estate investments. The engagement involved navigating a complex portfolio of properties held through various trusts and LLCs, each with its own unique structure and history. I worked closely with the client’s family and estate attorneys to review operating agreements, trust documentation, appraisal and valuation reports, and ensure accurate and strategic tax compliance.

What skill or quality do you believe is essential for success in your field today?

Embrace learning! The industry is always changing, and market conditions, tax laws, and client priorities can shift rapidly. To remain effective and provide real value, you have to stay curious, adaptable, and proactive about expanding your knowledge. Whether it’s understanding new regulatory developments, evolving investment strategies, or shifting client needs, those who embrace learning are best positioned to think strategically, solve complex problems, and lead with confidence. In a field where no two deals are alike, the ability to absorb and apply knowledge is what sets us apart.

If you could change one thing about the CRE industry, what would it be and why?

If I could change one thing about the commercial real estate industry, it would be to break down the barriers that limit access and make the field more inclusive. As an accountant, I’ve worked with many individuals who are eager to get involved in real estate, whether as investors or developers, but are quickly discouraged by the complex regulations, high capital demands, and limited access to insider networks. Unless you have the right connections or come from a background already steeped in the industry, it can be incredibly difficult to break in, much less thrive.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in commercial real estate?

My advice to any woman considering a career in commercial real estate is to stay curious, informed, and engaged, especially when it comes to tax law and market trends. Even in periods of uncertainty, there are always moments to rethink, rebrand, and reposition assets in creative and strategic ways. I’ve found that staying current on real estate tax developments and acquisition trends not only sharpens my expertise but also opens the door to new connections and opportunities. The more informed you are, the more confidently you can contribute and carve out your place.